Reading up on branding

A nomadic salesman builds his brand selling pistachio baklava wedges at Knicks games, city parks, and Phish shows.

Paul Graham argues that as technology eliminates functional product differences, brands become the primary moat, using Swiss watch industry as a case study.

A branding study identifies 14 visual identity trends and five brand archetypes (e.g., Likeable Leaders, Bold Builders) shaping how AI companies signal trust, ambition, or humanism.

Actress Sydney Sweeney launched her lingerie brand Syrn with a publicity stunt involving the Hollywood sign, demonstrating her ability to capitalize on the attention economy.

Microsoft rebranded the Office app to "Microsoft 365 Copilot app," drawing widespread criticism for confusing naming and perceived desperation to boost AI usage.

Anymark sells $59 brand kits with pre-designed, research-backed logos and strategy playbooks, targeting startups that want fast, professional branding.